Mildew and Mold Need To Be Banned From Your Home

While most people hear a lot about the various kinds of molds that can cause serious health problems for the average homeowner, there is not as much that’s been written about mold’s cousin, mildew. Mildew is just as common and just as deadly as mold in some cases and to that end it’s in the homeowners best interest to learn all the ways that they can keep it at bay.

First off, the average homeowner will need to know what mildew is. By definition, mildew is a fungus growth that can produce objectionable odors and left untreated it can destroy a house and it’s contents. The sources of mildew must be addressed in every home, because mildew may be the first signal that more serious problems lurk in the house.

To grow and flourish, mildew spores require heat, darkness, moisture and poor air circulation. Where there is little air circulation along walls, such as in closets and behind furniture and drapes, it’s necessary to look for the kind of dark stains that indicate mildew is present.

To remove mildew, chlorine bleach is often used with a proper disinfectant that will kill the spores. Make sure to check with the people at the local home renovation stores that will be able to tell you the right amount of water to chlorine ratio that you should use.

When you are cleaning the walls and ceilings of mildew, make sure to wear the proper eye protection. You also need rubber gloves and old clothes when handling all bleach products and make sure that you cover over the furniture and any other expensive items that might get dripped on.

If the infestation of mildew is widespread, you can use a sponge to apply the bleach water mixture to the walls. Let the solution sit on the surface for a few minutes to make sure that it does its job properly. The process might need to be repeated if the mildew is not removed on the first pass.

If you have a large area that you need to cover, the best tool to use here might be a sponge mop. Here, you want to let the solution set for a few minutes and then reapply if the mildew persists.

Water stains or mildew may also form on doors and windows and here you’ll need a slightly different technique to get rid of the stains. Some woods such as oak will develop stains due to the acid in the wood and here you’ll need to be careful when you apply the solution and be aware of the paint or finish.

If you have any health problems, are pregnant, are of child bearing age, elderly or immune compromised, consult a professional. Air and surface samples for toxic spores should always be taken both before and after any remediation needed.